Next of kin's experiences with and attitudes towards digital monitoring technology for ageing people with dementia in residential care facilities. A qualitative study based on the voices of next of kin and care providers

Abstract

Aim: To explore next of kin's experiences and attitudes regarding information surrounding the introduction and use of technology to monitor residential home residents with dementia.

Background: As our population ages, conditions increase health care and societal challenges. Digitalisation and welfare technology are important for developing health services for the ageing population; adapting information-sharing and communication about these pics with those involved, such as next of kin, will become increasingly important for developing appropriate services.

Design: This qualitative study has an exploratory and interpretative approach, using in-depth interviews based on a hermeneutical-phenomenological perspective.

Methods: During the process of implementing a variety of residential care monitoring technologies, data were collected primarily via semi-structured, in-depth interviews with care providers and next of kin. In addition to the individual interviews, one focus group interview was carried out with care providers.

Results: Next of kin are a heterogeneous group who need differing types of information - and different styles of communication - to convey information about their relatives in residential care. General attitudes among the next of kin towards welfare technology were positive. Three analytic themes that illustrate the next of kin concerns emerged: (1) concern for safety, autonomy and ethics; (2) resistance and optimism towards technology; (3) information about the use of monitoring technology.

Conclusion: Digital monitoring technology is increasingly being implemented in residential care. Next of kin are salient in this context. Accordingly, best practices for informing and communicating in a collaborative process must be developed. While some next of kin have resources and are able to be highly engaged, others are unable or unwilling to be active participants in their family members' lives. It is critical that care providers are aware that next of kin are a heterogeneous group. Our proposed profiles may prove helpful for giving the right information and attention to next of kin, and this may improve residential care services.

Relevance to clinical practice: These findings may aid in the tailoring of information and communication systems to individual next of kin's needs and in improving residential care services.

Keywords: ageing people; assistive technology; dementia; digital monitoring; next of kin; residential care.